What makes the perfect honeymoon?
Does it involve candlelit dinners for two with the romantic backdrop of the ocean? Is it about seeing, exploring and once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Or is it about pure relaxation? A dream honeymoon should reflect who you are as a couple, with experiences that create extraordinary memories for you and your partner to cherish for a lifetime. Celebrating the start of your new life together is equally as special as your wedding day and the UK offers a plethora of romantic honeymoon locations that provide an idyllic and memorable post-wedding retreat.
If your honeymoon is in summer, think lazy days on sweeping beaches and secluded coves in Devon or Cornwall, or relaxing sunset strolls hand-in-hand along windswept coastal paths in Wales. Come winter, imagine breathtaking hill walks in the Lake District, stargazing from the warmth of a hot tub in Northumberland or cuddling up in front of a crackling log fire in the Cotswolds.
Romantic cottages
Why honeymoon in the UK?
- The convenience – most locations in the UK can be reached by car, train, bus or plane.
- Impressive sights – there are so many hidden gems, historic sites and incredible landscapes to discover.
- Year-round attractions – with an abundance of indoor and outdoor attractions, you will always find something to do come summer or winter.
- Unique activities – sightseeing, outdoor adventure, relaxation… the UK has everything.
- Lasting memories – you can return to your honeymoon spot for years to come and perhaps one day bring your children.
Whether you plan romantic days out, enjoy adventures in the great outdoors, or simply spend your time in a cosy honeymoon cottage enjoying each other’s company with champagne breakfasts in bed, a staycation honeymoon could be perfect for you. Prepare to be smitten with our highlights of the UK’s most romantic destinations, from coast to countryside.
Cornwall
For barefoot walks along golden sands
Cornwall is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway in the UK with over 300 miles of spectacular coastline full of wide sandy beaches, hidden coves and sunset views on coastal footpaths. Pack a picnic of fluffy scones, clotted cream and jam, and wander the wild North Cornish moorland or indulge in a romantic meal for two in one of Kernow’s pretty harbour towns where award-winning Michelin-star restaurants serve a mouth-watering selection of freshly caught seafood.
Things to do: A honeymoon in Cornwall is ideal for couples in search of romantic beauty spots. From the secluded golden cove at Bedruthan Steps dotted with granite rocks (only accessible at low tide), and St.Nectan’s Glen where a dazzling 60ft high waterfall awaits, to Looe Island Nature Reserve which is a stunning sanctuary for marine wildlife, the dramatic views rarely fail to provide a breathtaking experience.
If you and your partner are seeking some adventure on your Cornish honeymoon, why not book a surfing lesson and ride the waves together, or if you fancy some culture, head to St. Ives with its quaint streets and wander hand-in-hand around the Tate Modern Gallery or the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.
Where to stay: Laburnham, Whitsand Bay
Wake up to some of the most breathtaking sea views you will ever experience at this five-star couples’ retreat overlooking Whitsand Bay.
Romantic Cornwall cottages
Edinburgh
For the bright lights of the city
As one of the most handsome cities in Europe, Edinburgh offers an exceptionally romantic weekend break in the UK for your post-wedding celebrations. Famous for its vibrant arts and music culture, the city hosts an abundance of popular events including the Fringe Festival and The Edinburgh Military Tattoo. With cobbled streets and Georgian architecture, a honeymoon in Edinburgh provides an eclectic mix of shopping, sight-seeing and fine dining.
Things to do: Browse the bustling independent shops and artisan stores of the Grassmarket and Victoria Street, home to some of the most luxurious cashmere around, followed by an afternoon tea in the magnificent Edinburgh Castle. For a night on the town, take in a show at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre followed by a swanky dinner at Restaurant Martin Wishart or the lavish and decadent Gothic institution, The Witchery by the Castle, before cosying up in the nearest pub in front of a crackling fire with a dram of whiskey.
Where to stay: The Byre At Brothershiels, near Edinburgh
After soaking up the sights in Edinburgh, head back to this stylish byre just 15 miles away from the city and sink into the warm bubbles of its housed hot tub.
Romantic Edinburgh cottages
The Cotswolds
For a quintessentially British adventure
The Cotswolds is a destination positively made for newlyweds: charming chocolate-box villages surrounded by rolling green hills and fragrant wild-flower meadows. Named as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds is an idyllic haven for a honeymoon in the UK. With a myriad of vintage tearooms, country pubs and fine dining restaurants, it is also a foodie’s paradise so there’s certainly no shortage of settings for a romantic meal for two.
Things to do: Hire a classic car and explore the meandering country lanes in style. Follow the ‘Romantic Road’ which winds its way from Broadway passing a stately home and several honey-hued Cotswold hill villages including Naunton, Upper and Lower Slaughter, and Bourton-on-the-Water also known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’. The circular drive continues through the ancient market town of Stow-on-the-Wold and Snowshill before returning to Broadway Tower with its unforgettable views.
Around every picturesque corner of the Cotswolds, you’ll discover romantic break activities: indulge in an afternoon tea; treat your loved one to a spa experience; try a cookery course together or drift around one of the many beautiful gardens and country houses. A honeymoon in the Cotswolds is sure to be remembered for a lifetime.
Where to stay: Thimble Mill, Lower Slaughter
The perfect chocolate-box cottage, this little Cotswold gem is as cute inside as it is out.
Romantic Cotswold cottages
Snowdonia/Eryri
For lovers of the great outdoors
For the active couple seeking adventure in the Great British countryside, pull on your hiking boots as this UK honeymoon spot is a hilly one! Surround yourself in the splendid mountainous landscape of Snowdonia in North Wales. With vast Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and views unlike any other, this Welsh mountain range has nine peaks ready to be ascended by cyclists, climbers and hikers. Admire dramatic river gorges, tumbling waterfalls, valleys and forests all within walking distance of one another. Snowdonia is the perfect rural escape to lose signal, explore the outdoors, embrace time with your new spouse and ‘cwtch’.
Things to do: Not only does Snowdonia boast an overwhelming mountainscape, but it is also home to a pristine coastline – the whole stretch is a Special Area of Conservation. Why not take in a rugged cliff-top walk before stopping for a delicious pub lunch of Welsh rarebit (the world’s finest cheese on toast).
You’ll be spoiled for choice for romantic days out in Snowdonia, whether you spend the day wine tasting and touring one of North Wales’ vineyards, pause for a selfie at Criccieth Castle, take a relaxing stroll around Bodnant Garden, visit Pistyll Rhaeadr (the tallest waterfall in Wales), or if you’re really up for a challenge, conquer Yr Wyddfa/ Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, together.
Where to stay: Craig y Nos, near Betws-y-Coed
Snuggle up warm in the comfort of this gorgeous luxury pod, complete with it's own hot tub where you can soak under the stars.
Romantic Snowdonia cottages
Lake District
For landscapes that have inspired poetry
Renowned as one of the most romantic destinations in the UK, the Lake District is England’s biggest national park and has recently been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. It is a land of glittering lakes, fell-top panoramas, white-washed cottages, awe-inspiring walks, welcoming tearooms and country pubs with fireside sofas. Described by William Wordsworth as, “The loveliest spot that man hath found…”, the Lake District is intimately linked with romantic poetry and makes for one of the finest honeymoons in England.
Things to do: What could be dreamier than hiring a rowing boat and exploring the sparkling waters of Lake Windermere together with your loved one? A scenic stroll to the 300-year-old High Sweden Bridge is also a must-visit for lovers (it’s also a popular spot for proposals) or pack a picnic and make a toast to married life in the pretty gardens of Rydal Mount, the family home of William Wordsworth.
Even if it’s wet, you’ll be hard-pushed not to be taken in by the romance of the area, and what better excuse to snuggle in front of a roaring fire or sink into a roll-top bath full of bubbles in one of our luxury honeymoon cottages?
Where to stay: The Bothy - Lake District, near Windermere
Indulge in a spot of escapism at this gorgeous, intimate bothy - enjoy sunset drinks in the quaint courtyard, and soothing dips in the enticing roll top bath, before sinking into the sumptuous bed on the mezzanine.
Romantic Lake District cottages
Devon
For exhilarating days in the surf
Start your married life perfectly on a honeymoon in Devon where rugged cliffs, sweeping sands, wild moors and cosy pubs welcome couples to fall in love all over again. Packing in two spectacular coastlines, two national parks and five official Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Devon is hard to beat for the wealth of activities on offer for couples. Look forward to long, lazy summer days on the beach and winter walks holding your sweetheart’s gloved hand, teamed up with cosy evenings in the warmth of pub fires or swooning at the night sky from the top of a tor. Bliss!
Things to do: Escape the crowds and take a romantic boat trip from Bideford to the unspoilt Lundy Island, a unique haven for wildlife. Active couples can don their wetsuits and help each other catch a wave in the surf at Croyde or Woolacombe followed by a peaceful picnic on the sand. Alternatively, savour a delicious cream tea in a comfy tearoom watching the world go by, then snuggle up in one of our romantic retreats in Devon and spend some quality time together.
Where to stay: Royal Romance, Westward Ho!
Pop open a bottle of fizz and sink into the super-king-size bedroom’s indulgent whirlpool bath, or head outside for a night in the hot tub beneath a blanket of twinkling stars.
Romantic Devon cottages
York
For newlyweds fascinated by history
Exquisite architecture, a network of cobbled streets and atmospheric alleys, one of Europe’s largest Gothic cathedrals, acclaimed restaurants and low-beamed pubs; if you’re searching for UK honeymoon ideas, York is often dubbed as the most romantic city in England and makes for a wonderful weekend away for two. Legend has it that couples who kiss under the Minster’s Heart of Yorkshire Window will stay together forever.
Things to do: Be seduced by the charms of this historic walled city with a cool glass of bubbly by the River Ouse, immerse yourself in Viking-age York at the Jorvik Viking Centre, delight in tea for two in the famous tearoom ‘Betty’s’ or follow the York Chocolate Trail to discover the city’s chocolate-coated past (testing the produce along the way, of course!). The best part about a cottage break in York is that no car is needed. Arrive by train and within ten minutes you’re in the heart of the city, what could possibly be more relaxing than that?
Where to stay: Green Cottage, York
Ideally situated just a 20-minute stroll from York Minster, this charming cottage makes the perfect base for exploring the city.
Romantic York cottages
Scottish Highlands
For those seeking remote hideaways
If you can’t imagine anything more romantic than an epic landscape of majestic mountains mirrored in the still surfaces of glistening lochs, along with cascading waterfalls, untouched coastlines, ancient castle ruins and a carpet of colourful heather everywhere you turn, the Scottish Highlands are hard to beat for a honeymoon break in the UK. They offer the perfect love nest for intrepid romantics who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, experience rare peace and quiet and that elusive ‘away from it all’ feeling.
Things to do: Adrenaline-junkie newlyweds will find plenty of activities to bond over, from mountain biking and horse riding to white-water rafting, sailing and climbing. If you’re after a more chilled honeymoon, enjoy a tranquil champagne cruise on Loch Lomond, explore some of the most captivating castles in the world and enjoy peaceful ambles through jaw-dropping scenery. If the weather isn’t on your side, don’t let that dampen your spirits - retire to the warmth of a fine dining restaurant followed by a nightcap by the fire in a cosy cottage for two.
Where to stay: The Seashell - Acharacle, Acharacle
Overlooking Loch Sunart and enveloped by wilderness, this Highlands hideaway is a chance for couples to escape the real world and reconnect with nature.
Romantic Scottish cottages
Northumberland
For sunset cuddles on silky sands
Northumberland is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has plenty to offer honeymooners looking for a romantic holiday in the UK. With 39 miles of stunning coastline, picture-perfect landscapes with sweeping vistas, ancient history and Europe’s largest Dark Skies Park, this wonderful region is made for a lovers’ escape.
Things to do: Don your outdoor gear and feel like Cathy and Heathcliff in the Northumberland National Park. For thrill-seeking duos, hire mountain bikes and fly through the Kielder Water and Forest Park and as evening draws in, lie back and gaze up at the twinkling night sky in the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park and if you’re lucky, spot the technicolour shimmer of the aurora borealis.
This top honeymoon destination in the UK is famed for its sandy stretches and heart-stirring bays, perfect for a little swim with your loved one. Be sure to try and catch the sunrise if you visit – as dawn breaks, the sun shimmering off the sapphire waters on Bamburgh beach with a backdrop of its iconic castle offers the ultimate fairy-tale setting for a romantic experience like no other.
Where to stay: Pepperclose Cottage, Bamburgh
A charming little chocolate-box cottage, perfect for cream teas in the sunshine while enjoying the incredible views of Bamburgh Castle.
Romantic Northumberland cottages
Isle of Wight
For couples who love to explore
The beautiful Isle of Wight must be one of the most romantic places in the UK with its stunning scenery and gorgeous beaches, as well as an enviable selection of eateries for a romantic dinner for two. The whole island is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and so many have fallen under its spell including Queen Victoria, Keats, Tennyson and Julia Margaret Cameron. A honeymoon on the Isle of Wight provides the perfect romantic setting in which to start married life.
Things to do: The Isle of Wight’s diverse landscape makes it a walker’s paradise and there are plenty of footpaths that will lead you through ancient woodlands, open farmland, leafy green lanes, visiting historic towns and charming villages along the way. Follow in the footsteps of Tennyson and take a romantic stroll from Freshwater Bay to the Needles. Mesmerising views are your reward for climbing to the top of the dramatic chalk cliffs. From here, follow the spine of Tennyson Down to emerge at the Needles and Alum Bay, and some of the most spectacular and unspoilt views on the island.
If you would prefer a gentle paddle in the sea with your spouse, seek out one of the many sandy slices of heaven such as Shanklin, Steephill Cove, Compton and Colwell Bay. Lay down a blanket, bask in the sunshine together and wait for one of the most mind-blowing sunsets you will ever see.
Where to stay: The Clock House, Ventnor
Featuring an indulgent claw-foot bath, a deep sink-into bed and a sandy beach within strolling distance, there’s no better place for newlyweds to spend quality time together.
Isle of Wight cottages
Map of the UK’s top honeymoon destinations
Book your dream honeymoon in the UK
The honeymoon is the pinnacle of your wedding experience and our honeymoon cottages in the UK ensure that it will be every bit as special as your wedding day. From heavenly hideaways deep in the countryside to secluded seaside retreats, we have a cottage for you.
Look out for exclusive features such as four-poster beds, hot tubs and real log fires and relax in the knowledge that each of our properties are located within easy driving distance of attractions, points of interest and places to eat, with many also boasting romantic walks directly from the doorstep. The hardest part is deciding which destination to choose!
Honeymoon cottages